A comparison of two different techniques for oculomotor torque reduction.

PURPOSE: To compare the results of two different surgical techniques: 'Cüppers technique', in which the torque of oculomotor rectus muscles is reduced by suturing the muscle to the globe in the posterior half of the globe; and 'Y-split recessions', in which the muscle torque is reduced by Y-splitting the rectus muscles, and reattaching the two halves at an angle to each other.

METHODS

We carried out a retrospective analysis of the outcome of surgery on 100 patients with infantile esotropia.

RESULTS

Both techniques show a sufficient reduction of strabismus angle variability, and minimal and maximal strabismus angle.

CONCLUSIONS

Both techniques achieve satisfactory results. In addition, the Y-split technique allows for accurate control of the muscle torque and requires no access to the posterior half of the eye, which can facilitate the surgical approach. For a reduction in muscle torque, the Y-split recession is a good alternative to the established Cüppers technique.